Leandro Trossard rates Arsenal title chances after overcoming ‘weird period’

After losing to the champions and surrendering top spot last month, Mikel Arteta’s side have reeled off six successive victories, scoring 19 times and opening up an eight point gap, albeit having played a game more.

The form of January signing Trossard has been a huge factor in that impressive sequence of results which culminated in last Sunday’s 4-1 win over Crystal Palace.

Initially recruited to offer competition and back-up to wingers Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka, it is in a central striking role that Trossard has proved most effective so far, filling in for Eddie Nketiah and Gabriel Jesus.

‘I maybe didn’t expect to make that many minutes, but injuries helped me a bit. I’m however more than convinced of my own capabilities,’ Trossard said, speaking at a national team press conference on Wednesday. 

‘I arrived in a great group, filled with great players. That also makes it easier for new players to adapt and reach their levels.

‘It was a very busy and weird period for me, but I’m very happy that I have been able to join Arsenal. I think it’s been a great step for me.

‘We all know how difficult it is to win the league, looking at Man City and Liverpool in recent years, but I think we have a great squad and that we have proven time and time again that we’re doing well. 

‘There are 10 matches left, we’ll see where we end once the season finishes.’

Trossard is almost certain to feature prominently for Belgium over the next week following the retirement of Eden Hazard and alongside City talisman Kevin De Bruyne.

‘[De Bruyne] has a lot of experience at the highest level,’ Trossard said. ‘He knows everybody here, since he’s been here for a while already. 

‘A lot of the younger guys look up to him – I think that’s a really big advantage for a national team captain if people look up to you.

We have a new manager, a new staff, and I’m excited to make this new start as well.

‘We’re looking sharp, everybody wants to prove themselves. We also have a lot of youngsters, there’s a lot of renewed competition, and it’s clear everybody wants to give it their all.’

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